English Language Arts is more than just a subject–it’s a toolkit for essential life skills like critical thinking, effective communication, and personal growth. For those in the Rutgers Alternate Route program, teaching is about more than delivering lessons; it’s about empowering students and each other to thrive. These dedicated educators regularly swap and share innovative strategies and resources to enrich their classrooms.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted learning for all students, and literacy rates highlight that trend. According to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Assessment of Educational Progress, fourth and eighth-graders scored an average of five points lower on reading than students who tested before the pandemic. Likewise, Chalkbeat Newark reported that 51.6% of Newark Public Schools’ third graders met state reading standards, with that rate dropping to 36.9% in 2023.

We’ve curated a selection of educator-approved sites, such as SHAPE America, which offers national standards, ready-to-use lesson plans, and a wealth of professional resources. Open PE delivers free, grade-specific modules and creative activities for all K-12 levels, supporting teachers with adaptable and inclusive content. These tools are designed to spark new ideas, support your professional growth, and help every student enjoy moving and learning in your class.

Schools are like living organisms, with every staff, faculty and administrator—like our cells and DNA—doing their part to make up an entire body focused on the pursuit of knowledge. We know the reason healthy schools and bodies exist is because the sum of all their parts is strong, prepared and ready to carry out roles. If one group struggles, weakness ensues.

The paraprofessional role embodies this analogy, serving as support to students and the classroom teacher. Often referred to as the ‘backbone of a classroom,’ paraprofessionals step in and fill learning gaps through assisting teachers, guiding students and assisting with classroom management.

September 15 marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month with the theme “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future.” This year serves as a reminder of the cultural traditions that shape Hispanic identity and a call to embrace the creativity, innovation, and promise of future generations.